Brava Bellisima – Mondo Arte Gallery, Dubai
“My name would be ‘Umm Ibrahim,” smiles Nusayba, “’Mother of your first born.’ Royalty wives would have their exclusive name in common ‘Umm Shaikhs’. I am fascinated by the Emirati custom, as I now make the connection and familiarity to street names Umm Seqaim and Umm Al Sheif. Nusayba wears a beautiful abaya embroidered in white Moroccan trim to a birthday party. I am fortunate my son’s class includes this ambassador of Arab culture, patiently sharing her cultural views, and kindly speaking of Canadians. She enjoyed being in British Columbia as a University student.
My kindergarten son reads the British “tom-ahto” on a can of sardines, after sing-songing ‘Shukran’ over the club remixes playing at the local ParknShop (ParknRob, ie. Maple syrup 250ml-18$.) We are settled and happy with our international school and surroundings. Absorbing the benefits of a global experience and remembering to recognize the pitfalls of being privileged.
My son gets a Samsung cell phone in his party loot bag, and I consider taking it if it’s better than mine? I experience my first dinner wearing a bikini under my dress. My first midnite swim at 37, where you can’t see the waves, only feel them. My first snorkeling in Oman, then clapping enthusiastically as dolphins follow our boats in a fishing village. We make plans, and enjoy our days. I now recognize how thinking of the future is a habit. A privilege I have grown up with. Having goals, plans, a future vs the impoverished who can only survive today, perhaps see tomorrow.
I search for the fundamentals, for the priority of values in our shifting life. Ask-Ali.com had the beautiful way of saying, First God, then Family, then Community — in helping with major government decisions. Any grey areas are the reason for delays in project confirmation. Finding your priorities, remembering your goals, are a great way to help with the challenges of finding your identity within many cultures and values.
I love seeing the influence of Dubai and the international perspective it brings my work. I am currently working on painting for a Galerie Arte Laué in Switzerland.
